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Four Algonquin chiefs assert rights to title; call for an urgent meeting about Akikodjiwan

October 1, 2015

In light of Energy Ottawa’s excavation in and around Chaudière Island in recent weeks, and because federal and municipal officials have not responded to the chiefs’ August 29 call for a meeting, four Algonquin chiefs have written a new letter dated Sept. 30, 2015.

Chief Harry St. Denis, Chief Terrance McBride, Chief Lance Haymond and Chief Casey Ratt say in the letter that they “strongly object to this project proceeding [the excavation by Energy Ottawa] without Algonquin First Nations first being consulted about this project.”

They also tell federal, municipal and provincial officials, many of whom have announced their support for a mega-project of condos, offices and retail uses proposed by Dream Windmill, that “we are providing you with notice that we assert Aboriginal Rights to this sacred area.”

“As the duly elected Chiefs from Algonquin First Nations who are connected to this sacred area along with the other legitimate Algonquin First Nations we are calling for an urgent meeting to discuss with all of you, our proposed land-use concept for this Algonquin sacred area.”